Arsenal's Havertz Setback: Gunners Explore New Signing

Kai Havertz

Arsenal's Kai Havertz suffers knee injury, prompting transfer market search for new striker. Kai Havertz's knee injury could keep him out for months.

Arsenal forward Kai Havertz has suffered a knee injury, forcing the club to explore the transfer market for a backup striker. This setback comes just after the team's 1-0 win over Manchester United on the opening day of the season. Manager Mikel Arteta now faces a significant challenge in finding adequate cover for Havertz, who is expected to be out for several months.

Arsenal forward Kai Havertz is expected to be sidelined for a while due to a knee injury, and the club is already exploring options to replace him. David Ornstein, a journalist for The Athletic, revealed that Arsenal are actively looking to strengthen their attack and provide cover for Havertz's absence. “Arsenal forward Kai Havertz set for spell out with knee injury. Assessments on 26yo Germany int’l at early stage so prognosis + duration unclear but #AFC actively exploring transfer market for signing to strengthen attack & provide cover,” Ornstein posted.

🚨 Arsenal forward Kai Havertz set for spell out with knee injury. Assessments on 26yo Germany int’l at early stage so prognosis + duration unclear but #AFC actively exploring transfer market for signing to strengthen attack & provide cover @TheAthleticFC https://t.co/j2jroAZnXO

— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) August 20, 2025

Kai Havertz's injury is a significant blow to Arsenal, given his versatility and ability to play as a central striker, false nine, or attacking midfielder. Despite an injury-hit 2024/25 campaign, Havertz managed nine goals in 23 appearances for the North London side, showcasing his impact on the team. With Viktor Gyokeres joining the squad, Havertz was expected to be a backup option, but his injury has turned his role into a pressing concern for Mikel Arteta.

Injury Details:

• Havertz has suffered a knee injury, with the extent of the damage still unclear

• The prognosis is uncertain, but Arsenal fears he could be out for a significant period, potentially up to several months

• This injury comes after Havertz's hamstring tear in February, which caused him to miss 18 games last season

Impact on Arsenal's Squad:

Gyokeres will shoulder more responsibility, but the team lacks depth in the striker position, especially with Gabriel Jesus still recovering from an ACL injury

Leandro Trossard's new contract might see him provide cover, but Arsenal needs a natural striker to support Gyokeres

Arteta faces a tough task against Leeds United this weekend without Havertz, and the transfer window's closure in a few weeks adds pressure to find a suitable replacement

Potential Transfer Targets:

• Rodrygo: Real Madrid's star player has been linked to Arsenal, and his potential departure could make him an attractive signing

• Ademola Lookman: The Atalanta forward has been mentioned as a possible target, with Arsenal reportedly the only club to have made direct contact

• Ollie Watkins: Despite a hefty price tag, Watkins' experience and goal-scoring ability make him a potential option

• Nicolas Jackson: The Chelsea striker's raw talent and potential fit with Arteta's project player approach could make him a viable choice

• Lee Kang-in: PSG's forward has been linked to Arsenal, with the club reportedly ahead in the race to sign him.